Merz intensifies criticism of Greens as Germany's election campaign heats up

Friedrich Merz, the conservative frontrunner in Germany's federal elections, intensified his criticism of Green Party rival Robert Habeck. Merz labeled Habeck as unqualified for his role as economy minister, particularly regarding his handling of heating law reforms. As the campaign nears its end, polls show Merz's CDU/CSU bloc leading with 29.5% support, followed by the Alternative for Germany at 21% and the Social Democrats at 15%. The Greens have 12.5%, with coalition talks likely needed for a parliamentary majority. Both Merz and Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized Europe's need for greater security responsibility amid concerns over U.S. military commitments. Scholz also advocated for changes to Germany's debt rules to support modernization efforts without compromising healthcare and pensions.